The Lynton and Barnstaple Railway 1895-1935: (OL51 Oakwood Library of Railway History)

With the closure of the Lynton and Barnstaple Railway imminent in 1935, Leslie Catchpole wrote two articles about the railway for the "Southern Railway Magazine". However it was felt that a published history would be a more enduring tribute and ensure that the line would be remembered long after its closure. In those days railway books were considered a risky venture and only a handful had been published. As no great demand was expected only 250 copies were printed. However, sales were such that a reprint was needed by May of the same year and the book has been almost continuously in print ever since. So why is it that a small book about a little narrow gauge railway, now long closed, is still in print when so many other railway books have come and gone? For many it is their first introduction to the L&B written as it is, by someone who knew the line. This little book has surely contributed to keeping the memory of the railway alive long after its closure. In 2004 a part of the old route was reopened at Woody Bay and now a new generation of tourists can enjoy the delights of Exmoor from the carriage window of a narrow gauge train. We can only wonder what Leslie Catchpole would make of his seminal work still being available to those present day travellers in a refurbished L&B Station - I doubt he could have ever imagined such a thing in 1936! Since the early editions there have been small changes to the layout and certain items of interest taken out with this edition those items have been reinstated. Also included are previously unpublished photographs and others only seen in other Oakwood publications but all originating from L.T. Catchpole, Roger W. Kidner or the Oakwood archive. Leslie Catchpole who lived to be well over 80 never wrote another railway history; no other railway meant so much to him. We are confident that this new edition will appeal to those already captivated by the L&B, whilst hopefully attracting a new generation of admirers to appreciate its charms and join with those who's only aim is to see the railway reinstated to its former glory. The book is to A5 format it consists of 128 pages with 120 illustrations plus a pull-out plan of one of the Manning, Wardle 2-6-2 locomotives in original condition with details of valvegear.

Table of Contents:
Introduction to the Eighth Edition; First Thoughts; Construction and Opening; Equipment; The Route Described; Early Years; Progress; The Southern Railway; Closing and Sale; Locomotive Work by Frank E. Box; Council Action; Local Opinion.